Published on: 7/9/2025
What are the differential diagnoses for unilateral tonsillar enlargement?
Unilateral tonsillar enlargement can be caused by infections, cancers like lymphoma, or other conditions, and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Explanation
Unilateral tonsillar enlargement means that one tonsil is bigger than the other. This can happen for several reasons:
Infections: Sometimes, a sore throat or other infections can cause one tonsil to swell more than the other.
Lymphoma: This is a type of cancer that can affect the tonsils, making one side grow larger.
Other Conditions: Other health issues might also cause one tonsil to get bigger.
It is important to see a healthcare provider to find out why one tonsil is bigger. They can help figure out the cause and decide if any treatment is needed. Each person's situation is different, so getting a check-up is a good idea if you notice this happening.
(References)
- Cortez EA, Mattox DE, Holt GR, & Gates GA. (1979). Unilateral tonsillar enlargement. Otolaryngology and head and neck surgery, 530694.
- Berkowitz RG, & Mahadevan M. (1999). Unilateral tonsillar enlargement and tonsillar lymphoma in .... The Annals of otology, rhinology, and laryngology, 10527279.
- Guimarães AC, de Carvalho GM, Correa CR, & Gusmão RJ. (2015). Association between unilateral tonsillar enlargement and .... Critical reviews in oncology/hematology, 25487766.
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